I'm definitely going to miss coming to the care center or visiting his house and hearing him crack a quick joke out of nowhere. His sense of humor never left his side, and it al- ways brought me peace to see that. Even as his dementia worsened, he could still make a joke and make people laugh. That special gift stayed with him until the end. He will be truly missed
In Loving Memory
Spencer Giles Morgan
1948•2026
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Obituary
Spencer Giles Morgan passed away peacefully on August 20, 2026, surrounded by his family—the people he loved most. He leaves behind a lifetime of service, countless stories, an enduring legacy of love, and a family who will miss his humor, his kindness, and his unmistakable presence. He loved his family, his friends, and simply being around others. He was genuinely funny, quick with a story, and always capable of making an ordinary moment more memorable. He was a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, counselor, teacher, and servant. He was, above all, a good man who loved his family and loved being with people.
Spence was born on October 16, 1948, in Salt Lake City, Utah, the middle child of seven—and the only boy among six sisters. Growing up surrounded by sisters may have helped sharpen the quick wit and sense of humor that became such a beloved part of who he was. Spence had a gift for making people laugh, telling a good story, and bringing a little mischief wherever he went.
Spence graduated from East High School and attended the University of Utah, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology in 1974 and a Master of Social Work in 1981. He went on to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and dedicated his career to helping families and children. He spent 31 years with the Division of Child and Family Services for the State of Utah, 25 years with LDS Social Services as a marriage and family counselor, and 15 years in private practice. Through his work, he touched countless lives with his compassion, wisdom, and genuine desire to help others.
On July 22, 1971, Spence married and was sealed for eternity to his sweetheart, Donna Louise McLay in the Logan Temple. Together they built a wonderful family: five sons—the basketball team—five daughters-in-law—the cheerleaders—15 grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter—the enthusiastic audience. Family was at the center of Spence’s life, and he treasured every opportunity to be surrounded by the people he loved. Over the course of their 55 years together, Spence and Donna made their home in Salt Lake City, Price, Taylorsville, West Jordan, and South Jordan, creating memories and friendships wherever they lived.
Spence served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Texas South Mission from 1968 to 1970 and an inner city mission with his favorite companion, his wife. His love for the Church and his desire to serve others remained an important part of his life. Throughout the years, he served in many capacities, including as a Bishop, Bishop’s counselor, executive clerk, stake high councilor, teacher in the Elders Quorum, Primary, and Sunday School, Young Men’s president, and missionary. He willingly gave his time and talents wherever they were needed and found great joy in serving others.
Spence was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne Spencer Morgan and Georgeva Giles Morgan; his sisters, Carol Beal, Judy (George) Latham, Marlene (Larry) Kesler, Shauni Morgan, and his brother-in-law, M. Reed (Cheryl) Sprague.
Spence is survived by his wife, Donna Morgan; his five sons - Spencer (Kimberly), David (Babes), Richard (Lori), Edward (Stephanie), and Timothy (Carlye); his sisters - Laurie (Phil) Sainsbury and Cheryl (Reed) Sprague; 15 grandchildren - Cody, Brookelle, Marissa, Mason, Mahaleah, Alexis, Kaylee, Johnny, Mckenzie, Benjamin, Tyler, Jaxen, Madelinn, Boston, and Emma; one great-granddaughter - Lilie; and his beloved dog - Annie.
We’d like to thank the staff at The Pepperwood Care Center, Cascade Springs Hospice and Canyon Hospice for caring for Spencer in his final eight months of life.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1540 West 10400 South, South Jordan, Utah. A viewing will be held beginning at 9:30 AM prior to services. Interment: South Jordan Cemetery.
Tributes
Uncle Spence-
We will miss you very much! Your legacy will live on in your amazing boys and sweetheart wife. The life you left impacted us all and we will be forever grateful for the memories! We will see you again as we know the plan of salvation allows us to live with our loved ones again! God be with you till we meet again. My niece is going through to get her endowments out the same time of your funeral and guess what…..It is in the Logan Temple so I am incredibly happy to have realized that was your temple too! Give Grandma and Grandpa Morgan and all the other siblings some love from this guy! Love you Uncle!
Oh Mr.Spence, thank you for always making me laugh and smile. I will never forget the quick cracked jokes or the perfectly timed attitude. We bonded over our love for Dr.Pepper and became besties. I’ll love you forever Spence.
Donna, thank you for allowing me to care for Spence in his final months. Being able to learn who Spence was before I knew him through you is something I am truly grateful for and was the greatest honor. Thank you for your unconditional support and love. I’ll never forget you.
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